There is nothing more tyrannical than a strong popular feeling among a democratic people.

In politics, what begins in fear usually ends in folly.

The more corrupt the republic, the more numerous the laws.

It is a certain sign of a wise government and proceeding, when it can hold men’s hearts by hopes, when it cannot by satisfaction.

The most hateful torment for men is to have knowledge of everything but power over nothing.

The spirit of liberty is the spirit which is not too sure it is right.

The best of all rulers is but a shadowy presence to his subjects.

Envy is the basis of democracy.

Do that which consists in taking no action, and order will prevail.

I shall be an autocrat: that’s my trade. And the good Lord will forgive me: that’s his.

People revere the Constitution yet know so little about it—and that goes for some of my fellow senators.

I am no courtesan, nor moderator, nor tribune, nor defender of the people: I am myself the people.

Politics is the art of the possible.